Ch 5: Absolute Monarchs in Europe

1. Old Empires in the Mid-17th Century: History, Timeline & Characteristics

During the 17th century, major empires controlled Central and Eastern Europe: the Holy Roman Empire, Poland, and the Ottoman Empire. Explore the history and characteristics of these old empires and a timeline of each empire's rule.

2. The Rise of Austria & Strengthening of the Hapsburg Monarchy

In the mid-17th century, the Hapsburg family in Austria focused control over their individual state instead of their part in the Holy Roman Empire. Learn about the Peace of Westphalia, the rule of Leopold I, control of Hungary, the Ottoman Sars, Westward Expansion, and Austria under Charles VI.

3. The Creation of Prussia: History & Timeline

From the 17th to 18th centuries, Prussian rulers consolidated power, made improvements, and strengthened the military. Explore the creation and historical timeline of Prussia, and understand the Hohenzollern family's role in its rise from divided states to a major power.

4. The Decline of Spain & Emergence of Competing Powers

In the 17th century, Spain was the most powerful country in Europe, but its status began to decline due to a series of bad decisions by its kings caused bureaucratic and economic issues. Learn how engaging in ill-advised wars led to the decline of Spain and the emergence of competing powers in Europe, such as France, Great Britain, and the Dutch Republic.

5. The Rise of the Dutch Republic & Their Golden Age: History & Timeline

During the 16th century, the Dutch Republic emerged as a powerful economic entity and the time is known as the Dutch Golden Age. Learn how the Dutch Republic fought for its independence from Habsburg Spain to achieve economic growth, external expansion, and success in society and the arts.

6. The Reign of Louis XIV in France: Accomplishments & Influence

King Louis XIV was one of the most influential kings in French history. Learn about his reign, how he handled the Fronde rebellions and centralized the monarch's authority, and then explore the French court and culture of the era.

7. French Expansion Under Louis XIV: Conflicts & Overview

French expansion under Louis XIV involved Louis' efforts to increase territory for the French throne. Explore an overview of the French expansion and learn about 17th-century France, the War of Devolution, the Dutch Wars, the War of the Grand Alliance, and the War of Spanish Succession.

8. The 30 Years' War: Catholics vs. Protestants

The 30 Years' War ended with the Peace of Westphalia and the diminished power of the Habsburg Dynasty. Learn about this war between Catholics and Protestants by following a timeline of its four phases: Bohemian, Danish, Swedish, and French.

9. Westphalia and Peace of Augsburg: States' Rise to Sovereignty and Decline of the Empire

During the Reformation, several events throughout Europe challenged the power and domination of the Holy Roman Empire. Learn about concessions made to Protestant demands by the Holy Roman Empire as a result of treaties called the Peace of Augsburg and the Peace of Westphalia, and discover how it led to the rise of state sovereignty and the decline of the empire.

10. Ivan the Terrible and the Making of Russia

Ivan the Terrible was one of Russia's most controversial rulers. Learn more about Ivan's reign as the first tsar and how he made Russia into a centralized, militant empire.

11. Peter the Great & the Westernization of Russia: Facts & History

Peter the Great was a Russian monarch who implemented various projects that ultimately led to the westernization of Russia. Learn about the early life of Czar Peter I and significant facts about the history of Peter the Great's westernization of Russia.

12. The English Civil War: Summary, Causes, Effects & Timeline

The English Civil War began a historical precedent in the way the monarchs are seen in Western Europe. In this lesson, explore a summary of the causes, effects, and timeline of the war, including some background information, Charles' Era of Personal Rule, the First and Second Phases, and the aftermath.

13. The Restoration of a Limited Monarchy in England: Definition & History

Restoring the form of government in England to a limited monarchy occurred during the 17th century. An alternating power struggle between monarchy versus parliamentary rule ensued over decades of civil and political unrest. Learn about the ousting and execution of King Charles I, and the rise and fall of both the Rump Parliament and Protectorate.

14. The Creation of Great Britain & The English Bill of Rights

During the Stuart period (1600s to early 1700s), the Parliament was vital to the creation of Great Britain. Explore the key events, such as the Glorious Revolution in England, English Bill of Rights, and Act of Union, and important figures, including James II and William.

15. The Partition of Poland: History, Timeline & Causes

By the late 18th century, Poland was partitioned three times and into non-existence by the three major European powers: Russia, Prussia, and Austria. Explore the historical background, causes, and timeline of the three-part Partition of Poland.

16. The Spanish Golden Age: Growth of Power & the Arts

The Spanish Golden Age was characterized by the growth of power and a flourishing of the arts. Explore this period in Spain's history under the reigns of Charles V and Philip II, and identify their contributions that brought about this golden age.